Beanbags are a sewing project for beginners and they are useful for games and activities. Follow these simple instructions to make this fun craft for kids.
Sewn beanbags
This project is recommended for children old enough to use a sewing machine under supervision. Hand sewing is not suggested since the stitches must be very small and tight in order to prevent the beanbags from leaking.
What you need:
- Woven fabric, 2 squares of 5” x 5” for each beanbag
- Plastic beanbag pellets
- Thread
- Sewing machine
Making the beanbags
For a four inch square beanbag, start with two five inch squares of fabric. For a three inch beanbag, start with two three inch squares.
1. Turn the right sides of the fabric to face one another and pin them together, so the wrong sides are showing on the outside.
2. Sew three of the sides closed making the seams half an inch from the edges, using small stitches.
3. On the fourth side of the beanbag, sew a seam half an inch from the edge halfway across the beanbag, leaving it unstitched for the remaining distance. Reinforce the seam by stitching over it again as it may be stressed when you turn and fill the beanbag.
4. Turn the beanbag right side out, poking into the corners.
5. Fill the beanbag with plastic pellets, as full or unfilled as you would like the bag.
6. Turn the fabric under at the opening and machine stitch it closed. You will see this seam, so make sure to use a thread color that blends well into your fabric.
You have a basic beanbag. Make an assortment of shapes, sizes and patterns to use for beanbag toss and hot potato games. You can mix and match fabrics so beanbags have different fronts and backs.
No-sew beanbags
To do this project with younger children or without a sewing machine, you may make beanbags using fabric glue.
1. Place one of your fabric squares face up on a flat work surface.
2. Use fabric glue or hot glue to make a line half an inch from the edges on three sides of the square.
3. Place the second square on the first, face down.
4. Allow the glue to dry COMPLETELY. Read the label on the glue for recommendations on how long the glue should dry. If you use hot glue, make sure an adult handles the gluing and simply allow it to cool.
5. Once the glue is set, turn the beanbag right side out.
6. Fill the beanbag with plastic pellets, as full or loose as you would like the bag.
7. Turn the fabric under at the opening and glue the inside of the opening to seal the beanbag. Allow the glue on this section to dry completely before using your beanbag.
Note: Plastic pellets for the purpose of making beanbags are sold at most craft and fabric stores. While beans, rice and other natural substances work well as filling, they can decompose over time, mold if they are exposed to moisture and also may attract insects, so plastic “beans” are highly recommended.
